Morphological and cytophysiological changes in selected lines of normal and cancer human cells under the influence of a radio-frequency electromagnetic field

Abstract

Introduction Currently, mobile phones and Wi-Fi are the most commonly used forms of telecommunication. The popularity of mobile telecommunications has made it necessary to investigate the problem more comprehensively and cautiously assess the possible risks, because never before in history has such a substantial proportion of the population been exposed to microwaves at comparably high levels. Some studies indicate that the high frequency electromagnetic radiation emitted by mobile phone and Wi-Fi connections can have a negative effect on human health, and can cause cancer. Objective The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of the radiofrquency electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) on the metaboloc activity and morphology of normal human cells (fibroblasts) and cancer cells (prostate cancer cells). Material and methods The cell cultures (human fibroblasts and prostate cancer cells) were exposed to RF-EMF at the frequency of 2.5 GHz for 24, 48 and 72h. To quantify changes in cell viability, the Cell Counting Kit – 8 was used. Results It was found that the RF electromagnetic field exposure caused a significant decrease in the viability of fibroblasts, and a significant increase in cancer cells. Morphological analysis did not show significant changes in both cell lines after exposure to RF-EMF. Conclusions On the basis of the obtained results, the hypothesis can be formulated that a high frequency electromagnetic field can have harmful effects on human cells.

Keywords

• metabolic activity
• morphology
• fibroblasts
• cells of prostate cancer
• radio-frequency electromagnetic field